Prevalence of Osteoarthritis in Canadian Seniors
According to data from the Public Health Agency of Canada, the prevalence of diagnosed osteoarthritis (OA) rises significantly with age. A 2017–2018 report found that over one-third of Canadian seniors aged 65 or older were living with the condition. More recent data from Statistics Canada and the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System continues to show high numbers, highlighting OA as one of the most common chronic diseases among this demographic.
Impact on Different Senior Age Groups
The prevalence of osteoarthritis is not uniform across the senior population but rather increases with age. While the overall prevalence among those 65+ is high, the data shows a clear trend of rising percentages within older age brackets.
- Ages 65–69: For the fiscal year 2016-2017, the prevalence of diagnosed OA among Canadians in this age group was 28.1% overall, with a notable gender difference (32.7% among females and 23.3% among males).
- Ages 70–74: The prevalence increases to 34.4% for this age bracket, with 39.7% of females and 28.8% of males affected during the same period.
- Ages 75–79: The percentage of Canadian seniors with diagnosed OA continues to climb, reaching 40.9% overall (46.5% for females, 34.4% for males).
- Ages 85+: Among the oldest Canadians, the prevalence of OA becomes even more significant, affecting 54.0% of this group.
Why is Osteoarthritis More Common in Seniors?
The increased prevalence of osteoarthritis in the senior population can be attributed to a combination of factors related to aging and lifestyle. Historically viewed as simply a "wear and tear" disease, it is now understood to involve a complex interplay of joint damage, inflammation, and genetics.
- Increased Lifespan: Canadians are living longer, giving diseases like osteoarthritis more time to develop and progress.
- Joint Injury: Previous joint injuries from accidents or sports can increase the long-term risk of developing OA.
- Obesity: The rising rates of obesity in Canada are a major contributing factor to the increasing prevalence of OA, as excess weight places greater stress on joints, particularly the knees and hips.
- Genetic Factors: Heredity also plays a role in a person's susceptibility to developing osteoarthritis.
- Gender Differences: Women are disproportionately affected by OA compared to men. For Canadians aged 65+, women are 1.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with osteoarthritis.
Comparison of Osteoarthritis Prevalence by Age Group (Canada, 2016-2017)
| Age Group (years) | Total Prevalence (%) | Prevalence Among Females (%) | Prevalence Among Males (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–24 | 0.1% | 0.1% | 0.1% |
| 45–49 | 6.2% | 6.7% | 5.6% |
| 65–69 | 28.1% | 32.7% | 23.3% |
| 70–74 | 34.4% | 39.7% | 28.8% |
| 75–79 | 40.9% | 46.5% | 34.4% |
| 80–84 | 47.2% | 52.6% | 40.5% |
| 85+ | 56.4% | 60.1% | 47.9% |
*Data from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System.
Management and Future Outlook
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, it is a manageable condition. For seniors, a combination of lifestyle adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and medication can significantly improve function and reduce pain. Many people with OA wait years after experiencing symptoms before receiving a formal diagnosis, potentially delaying effective management. As the number of Canadian seniors and the overall burden of OA are expected to increase, there will be a greater need for public health action, enhanced patient education, and access to effective treatments.
Public health initiatives play a critical role in raising awareness that OA is not an inevitable part of aging and that proactive steps can help manage its impact. Encouraging seniors to maintain a healthy weight, stay physically active, and seek medical advice promptly are key strategies. The Arthritis Society of Canada provides valuable resources and support for individuals living with this chronic condition, regardless of age.
Conclusion
Osteoarthritis is a prevalent and challenging health issue for many Canadian seniors, with the proportion affected increasing with age. Recent data shows that a substantial portion of the 65+ population is diagnosed with OA, with rates climbing in older age groups and being particularly high among women. By promoting early diagnosis, lifestyle management, and supportive treatments, Canada's healthcare system can help mitigate the burden of this chronic disease on its aging population, improving quality of life and functional independence for those affected. Research and public education efforts are key to addressing the growing impact of osteoarthritis in Canada.
